It is a ritual that has been repeated since 2010, the year Franco Ballerini tragically died. Also this year, the technical staff of the Italian National Cycling Team wanted to pay tribute to the memory of Franco Ballerini, in front of the tomb where he rests, in the parish cemetery of Casalguidi, and to Alfredo Martini, at his home in Sesto Fiorentino.

A ceremony increasingly attended to remember beloved and unforgettable figures, missed by those who follow cycling. Leading the group was the president of the Italian Cycling Federation Cordiano Dagnoni with vice president Saverio Metti and Stefano Santerini, who is part of the National Team staff. The group gathered at the Casalguidi cemetery where Franco Ballerini rests, who was a victim of the tragic fatal accident at Casa al Vento during the Ronde di Larciano Rally on February 7, 2010. His two sons Matteo and Gianmarco were present, and the usual emotion for Franco was repeated.

"A dutiful tribute - said President Dagnoni - for a character who was a splendid example first as a man, then as an athlete, and finally as technical commissioner of the Italian National Team. And what can be said about Alfredo Martini, an icon of our cycling in the world. This is a memory that must continue in the future."

In Sesto Fiorentino, on Via Giusti, where Alfredo Martini lived, the group was able to visit and admire the "museum" created by Alfredo's daughters, Silvia and Milvia, with many invaluable memories including diaries and agendas on which Martini noted all the results of Italian riders. And still the paintings, the photos hanging on the walls of the museum-room, a true jewel in the center of Sesto.

Among those present were the new national team coach, Roberto Amadio, Marco Villa, Marino Amadori, Dino Salvoldi, Marco Velo, Mario Scirea, mechanics, masseurs, collaborators, and staff members of the blue team. An affectionate tribute to two characters, symbols and images of our cycling. The gathering before the final goodbyes was at the "Carmagnini del '500" restaurant, the venue of the national Giglio D'Oro award that has been held since 1974 in Pontenuovo di Calenzano.